Parenting is stressful. No one can argue against that. Even getting out the door in the mornings can sometimes be a battle – putting on shoes for the fifth time while remembering everything needed for the day. On top of this, you’re staying on top of their wellbeing, schooling, extra activities – pretty much everything. But that is normal.
What isn’t normal is not allowing yourself to wind down. To take a breather from time to time and experience a little ‘you time’. In the bath, on the sofa, with friends. It’s the oxygen mask rule, where sometimes it’s important to see to your own wellbeing, and to be of better help to others.
And there’s no better way to shut off and unwind than by playing a few games. Interestingly, 70% of gamers reported feeling happier by doing this. Which isn’t surprising. It’s an opportunity to poke your head into a virtual world, undistracted by the duties of parenthood and indulge in some good old-fashioned fun. Whether that’s blasting aliens in a FPS or picking an online casino on BonusFinder Canada; the point is that you recover your energy while enjoying yourself.
In this article, we’ll look at why this is and offer some insight into the benefits of switching off from life and switching on online.
How Online Gaming Helps Parents Unwind
The basis behind this is actually quite understandable. When parenting is such an intense experience, from the moment you wake up to the time they go to bed, having the outlet to distract you – to take your mind briefly elsewhere – is going to be important.
In fact, parents who play games moderately claim to have an improved mood, reduced emotional turmoil (and better regulation), more relaxation and stress reduction. It sounds like a wonder drug. But it’s partly because your mind is elsewhere that these benefits shine through.
Look at it this way. As soon as you become a parent, things change – of course they do. And this isn’t for the worse, it’s just a different stage of life. But what comes with that are limitations to what once was. An important one being the freedom to meet friends whenever you wish. Gaming, either on a casino platform or through a console, is a great way to retain that, to chill out in parent clothes while eating snacks, and placing a few bets while catching up.
Put simply, escapism is a big stress relief. It’s the same as reading a book or watching a movie, but the idea of gaming virtually adds more sociability, more fun, and more excitement. You’re winding down while playing poker or spinning your luck on roulette. It brings the joy of going out directly to you, from the palm of your hand or on your TV.
And there are other benefits too. Gaming has been shown to offer cognitive advantages, such as mental flexibility, information processing and attention control. All the things a parent suffers to sharpen when feeling worn out. It’s these underlining benefits that actually winding down so important. It makes you a far better parent in the long run.
Jackpot of Joy
While the games you choose will differ, online gambling offers the same social benefits as an in-person casino. A lot of this comes from the latest strides in technology, which allow you to easily chat to your friends. Virtual reality (VR) is also making an impact here, where it will soon be commonplace to visually see the casino floor and even interact with friends or new people as if they were right there. All of this is done from the comfort of home, of course. Perfect for parents.
The other aspect we shouldn’t forget to talk about is the actual excitement of it all. After all, your time as a parent is limited. It isn’t long before the daily routine takes hold again, so it’s essential to fill the time you have with exhilarating moments and regular thrills.
Going online and playing your favorite game should be easy, quick and as stress-free as possible. That’s the whole point. That’s why many platforms have a quick sign in feature using personal devices or even your thumbprint. The point is that you’re maximising the time you have to really make the most of what gaming offers. The quicker you’re on there, the quicker you’ll be seeing the benefits.
As with anything in life, finding the right balance is important. It’s easy to stay up late enjoying the games being played. But it’s easily monitored. Set limits, play a variety of games and include your friends more to really get a sense of balance and moderation.
A Bit More ‘you Time’
While parenting will always contain its challenges, the wonders of technology allow for us to take some time to ourselves; away from the duties we still cherish, but in order to recharge and feel refreshed. Playing games that add some extra thrills to our evenings is a great way to do this. They capture a sense of escapism and make it easily accessible and safe to enjoy.
What is certain is that by doing so, you’ll feel the weight come off your shoulders. You’ll enjoy the day that much more, knowing that a little more ‘you time’ is waiting. Not in a club across town, nor at a coffee place on the corner. It’s all happening in the place you love the best – home.